Meta-Analysis of Global Beer Market: Key Statistics and Trends

The global beer market in 2024 is worth USD 787 billion and is projected to grow to USD 1,210.5 billion by 2032, with a 4.5% CAGR. 

Our figures are based on our analysis of five different market research reports. Our confidence in these figures is moderately high due to the converging nature of the estimates. A detailed description of our analysis methods is provided below.

Market Size and Growth Metrics

Current Size and Growth Projections

As of 2024, the global beer market is valued at USD 787 billion, with expectations to reach USD 1,210.5 billion by 2031, reflecting a CAGR of 4.5% from 2024 to 2032. 

This growth is fueled by increased demand in rising consumer demand in emerging economies, the popularity of craft and premium beers, and innovations in product offerings.

Major Market Segmentation

By Product Type

1. Lager is the most widely consumed beer type globally and is expected to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period. Lager is bottom-fermented, resulting in a fresh and crisp taste.
2. The ale segment is projected to experience the highest growth during the forecast period. Ales are top-fermented beers that offer a wide range of flavors and styles.
3. Stouts and porters are dark, rich beers that are particularly popular in Europe. This segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.1% from 2024 to 2028, reaching a market valuation of USD 14.26 billion by 2028.
4. The craft beer segment is a rapidly growing market, expected to reach USD 293.4 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 9.2% from 2024 to 2032. Craft beers appeal to consumers seeking unique flavors and quality.
5. Malt beers are a small but distinct segment, offering a sweeter and less hoppy taste profile.

By Region

1. Asia-Pacific:
   • The largest beer-consuming region, accounting for over 35% of global consumption in 2024.
   • Countries like China and India lead in consumption, with China projected to consume 38 billion liters in 2024.
   • Rapid growth in the craft beer market is notable, with expectations for significant increases in production and consumption.
2. North America:
   • The second-largest beer market by volume, with the United States alone accounting for a substantial share.
   • The craft beer segment in the U.S. is expected to grow, with the market share reaching 13.3% in 2024.
   • Approximately 6,406 breweries were recorded in the U.S. as of 2020, reflecting a strong brewing culture.
3. Western Europe:
   • The region holds a significant market share, with countries like Germany and the UK being top consumers.
   • The UK has one of the highest per capita consumption rates, while Germany remains a leading beer producer.
4. Eastern Europe:
   • This region is witnessing a steady demand for beer, with countries like Russia being major contributors to the market.
5. South America:
   • Brazil is the largest beer market in South America, with increasing consumption rates driven by a growing middle class.
6. Middle East and Africa:
   • Beer consumption is on the rise in this region, with countries like South Africa leading the market.
   • The region is experiencing a cultural shift towards beer consumption, influenced by globalization and changing lifestyles.

Industry Trends and Dynamics

Experimentation with Unique Beer Styles

Brewers are pushing boundaries by experimenting with innovative ingredients and flavors, leading to a diverse range of unique beer styles.

The trend includes incorporating traditional brewing methods from various cultures, resulting in a fusion of flavors and styles that cater to adventurous consumers.

Sustainable Brewing Practices

Many breweries are adopting eco-friendly practices, such as using organic ingredients and sustainable packaging, to reduce their environmental impact and appeal to conscious consumers.

The adoption of sustainable brewing practices is becoming a strategic move to enhance brand reputation and meet evolving consumer demands for responsible products.

Packaging Innovations and Recycling Initiatives

Breweries are exploring alternative packaging options, including the use of recycled materials, to reduce environmental impact while maintaining product quality.

The shift towards sustainable packaging is gaining momentum, with many breweries implementing recycling initiatives for their packaging waste.

Innovations in packaging, such as the use of eco-friendly materials and improved recycling methods, are helping to minimize the industry’s carbon footprint and promote a circular economy.

Industry Drivers and Challenges

Craft Beer and Global Expansion

The craft beer market is expected to reach USD 293 billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate of 9.2% CAGR from 2024 to 2032, fueled by consumer interest in unique flavors and artisanal products.

Rising disposable incomes and urbanization in countries like India and China are significantly boosting beer consumption, with urban areas seeing increased demand for diverse beer options.

E-commerce sales of beer are projected to reach USD 3.45 billion by 2027, highlighting the growing importance of online retail in expanding consumer access to a variety of beer products.

Regulations, Alternatives, and Shifting Preferences

Stringent regulations and high taxes on alcoholic beverages can impact pricing and availability, particularly in regions with strict alcohol laws.

Increasing competition from non-alcoholic alternatives is a challenge, with non-alcoholic beer revenue expected to grow by $46.38 billion by 2027.

Supply chain disruptions and rising costs of raw materials, such as barley and hops, are affecting production costs and profitability for breweries.

Shifts in consumer preferences towards healthier lifestyle choices are leading to a decline in traditional beer consumption, necessitating adaptation by breweries to meet these evolving demands.

Consumer Insights

Per Capita Consumption

The global average beer consumption per capita is projected to reach approximately 43 liters in 2024, reflecting a slight increase from previous years.

In 2023, the Czech Republic maintained its position as the highest beer-consuming country, with an average per capita consumption of around 188 liters.

Other notable countries include Austria and Germany, with per capita consumption rates of 107 liters and 101 liters, respectively, in 2023.

Shifts in Consumer Preferences

A significant 41% of consumers are actively trying to reduce their alcohol intake, with a notable rise in demand for low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beers, projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% from 2021 to 2026.

The craft beer segment is expected to continue its popularity surge, with sales predicted to grow by 14% from 2021 to 2026, driven by younger consumers seeking unique and high-quality options.

Approximately 61% of Gen Z and 49% of millennials express interest in low-alcohol beverage options, indicating a shift towards healthier lifestyle choices.

The market for gluten-free beer is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 9.1% from 2021 to 2026, reflecting increasing consumer awareness and demand for gluten-free products.

E-commerce sales of beer are projected to reach USD 3.45 billion by 2027, highlighting a shift in purchasing behavior towards online platforms.

Conclusion

In 2024, the global beer market is valued at USD 787 billion and is projected to reach USD 1,210.5 billion by 2032, with a 4.5% CAGR. Key takeaways include:

• Consumer Preferences: Interest in diverse beer types is increasing, particularly in craft beers, expected to reach USD 293.4 billion by 2032.
• Regional Trends: The Asia-Pacific leads in volume, while North America and Europe show a strong preference for craft beers.
• Sustainability and Digital Sales: Breweries are adopting sustainable practices and boosting online sales, projected to hit USD 3.45 billion by 2027.
• Challenges: Regulatory hurdles, competition from non-alcoholic alternatives, and rising production costs pose significant challenges.
• Consumer Trends: A shift towards low-alcohol and non-alcoholic options reflects a broader movement towards healthier lifestyles, especially among younger consumers.

The global beer market is poised for substantial growth but must navigate evolving consumer preferences and regulatory environments to capitalize on emerging opportunities.

References and Data Sources

How did we analyze our Sources?

To gain a complete understanding of the global beer market, we’ve analyzed data from five different market research reports. Using our own weighted criteria, we selected the top three reports with the highest scores and based our estimate on their findings.

Please note: Data marked with * is estimated based on original sources.

How did we grade our Sources?

• 4 = Highly useful, clear, and resistant to manipulation
• 0 = Provides no indication of reliability

How did we determine our Market Size?

Understanding the market’s direction can be challenging based on these estimates. 

However, we are moderately confident in our projections. The three sources show strong alignment with each other and other reports, despite incomplete data from the third source, Statista.

We encourage you to critically assess the data and consider various perspectives to form your own insights into the future of the beer market.

Nathan Fitzgerald

Nathan has always been captivated by numbers and patterns. With a Master’s degree in Statistics, he’s honed his skills to decipher complex data sets and discern market trends.

Over the past decade, Nathan has worked with various firms compiling and analyzing industry spending figures to forecast market movements.

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